Meet Gordon

I love to know all of the quiet little wonders people are working on when the weather turns dark and the elements force us inside. Especially during these pandemic times when we can’t do much with other people.

This is Gordon Koenig.

He’s our ukulele instructor. If you live here, you’ve undoubtedly seen him performing at Orcas Center or the Village Green as one-third of the trio JP & the OK Rhythm Boys (well, boy and girl). Or at one of the myriad private parties, house concerts, or fundraisers they’ve brightened with their musical charm.

That’s JP on violin, Gordon on bass, and Anita on guitar. You know Anita, “the saw lady”…

Get a peek at Gordon and Anita’s living room and you’ll wonder what instrument they can’t play!

They always have fun with their music. They get decked out in tuxes, boots, and big dresses, and just when you think they’re taking themselves seriously with some quiet Christmas caroling, they break out into a Jeanette Isabella/Cyndi Lauper mash-up.

Heck, they have a blast in general – whether performing or making videos – being the intelligent, hard-working, fun-loving people they are.

Whether they’re in an old car or a random office cubicle.

In this time of quiet, when concerts can’t happen in person and gatherings are COVID spreaders, Gordon’s working away in his wood shop building ukuleles by hand. He attended a two-week workshop on the East Coast, and is now crafting one-of-a-kind beauties under his own brand, Barn Swallow Ukuleles.

Here’s a glimpse…

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Thanks to Gordon, I’m learning to play an instrument. I never thought I’d have music lessons as an adult. That’s something we’ve made sure our kids have gotten, but gosh, am I having fun! Gordon suggested that I learn alongside my son, as it lessens the pressure and increases the enjoyment. We’ve done a little Hank Williams, Ian Tyson, Johnny Cash, and The Beatles.

Gordon makes it feel easy, as he introduces new concepts to us in a perfect progression that seems anything but overwhelming yet challenging enough for each week of practicing. Not to mention the fact that he has a natural joy for what he does, and he’s not only patient but also quick to encourage.

If you’re needing a little pick-me-up in these times, go to JP & the OK Rhythm Boys’ website or peruse their YouTube channel for some fun right from the comfort and safety of your couch. Or sit down for a little lunch break and listen to some of Gordon’s own songs on topics about everything from love to mayonnaise.

I’ll leave you with a little taste of Orcas – peaceful country roads, tall-grass meadows, and feet dangling out of barn windows…

Thanks for enhancing our lives, Gordon and friends.

Be on the lookout for livestream performances by these three. They just had one on November 7th via Orcas Center, gussied up and all.